The England Family Foundation has committed $1 million in emergency funding to support thousands of Washington, D.C. residents following the suspension of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits and the ongoing lapse in federal worker pay during the federal government shutdown. The funds will be shared evenly between Bread for the City and Martha’s Table, two longstanding community organizations providing food access and essential support to families across the District.
The suspension of SNAP benefits is affecting approximately 140,000 DC residents, many of whom are working families who depend on the program for essential nutritional support. At the same time, federal workers and contractors are entering their second month without pay, placing additional strain on both households and community support systems. Food pantries across the region are reporting a historic surge in demand as residents struggle to meet their basic daily needs.
Both Bread for the City and Martha’s Table are expanding food distribution efforts, including groceries and holiday meal support, as demand continues to rise heading into the Thanksgiving season. The organizations have also reported rapidly growing distribution lines and increased urgency among families seeking assistance.
A portion of the funding will also support direct cash assistance, reflecting a commitment to enabling families to make their own choices in addressing immediate financial pressures. The England Family Foundation stated that the goal of this contribution is both to provide immediate relief and to encourage additional philanthropic and private-sector participation to meet the scale of community need.
The organizations are encouraging partners, civic leaders, and residents to contribute to the effort. Those wishing to support can make a donation directly to Bread for the City and Martha’s Table.
KEY QUOTES:
“Thousands of our neighbors are waking up unsure how they’ll provide for their families. This is a real and urgent crisis. The England Family Foundation’s swift and compassionate response will make a tangible difference for families across our city.”
George Jones, CEO, Bread for the City
“In moments like this, our city’s true strength is found in our shared commitment to care for each other. This generous and timely gift shows what’s possible when philanthropy and community come together.”
“In moments like this, our city’s true strength is found in our shared commitment to care for each other. This generous and timely gift shows what’s possible when philanthropy and community come together to meet urgent needs with both dignity and compassion.”
Tiffany Williams, President & CEO, Martha’s Table (second quote in original text)
“At the England Family Foundation, we’re committed to supporting the dignity and stability of DC families. We were inspired by the rapid response of our local nonprofit partners and wanted to do something to amplify the importance of community solidarity in times when the safety net is strained. We hope this grant serves as a catalyst for others to give boldly and stand with our neighbors as we navigate tremendous uncertainty.”
Hannah Hahn, Executive Director, England Family Foundation
